| name | Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) |
| classification | Vitamin; Bone Metabolism Regulator |
| pharmacokinetics | Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is a fat-soluble vitamin. After oral administration, it's absorbed in the small intestine. It's then metabolized in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), the major circulating form. Further metabolism in the kidneys converts it to the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D), which regulates calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. Vitamin D3 has a relatively long half-life, ranging from several weeks to months. It's stored in body tissues, especially the liver and adipose tissue. |
| suggested dosage | Dosage varies greatly based on the reason for supplementation and individual needs. A healthcare professional should determine the appropriate dosage for a specific patient. Common dosages for general supplementation range from 600 IU to 800 IU daily, but higher doses may be needed for certain conditions. It's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage, as exceeding it can lead to hypervitaminosis D. Always consult a doctor before self-treating with vitamin D supplements. |
| indications | | 1 | Prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency | | 2 | Treatment of rickets in children | | 3 | Treatment of osteomalacia in adults | | 4 | Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis | | 5 | Management of certain conditions affecting calcium and bone metabolism |
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| safety in pregnancy | Vitamin D is generally considered safe during pregnancy in recommended doses. However, supplementation should be done under the guidance of a doctor as it can interact with other medications and may affect the developing fetus. Higher doses should be avoided. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Vitamin D is transferred to breast milk, making it potentially available to the infant. A lactating mother with a vitamin D deficiency may benefit from supplementation, but a healthcare professional should monitor and adjust the dose if needed. Excessive intake can cause side effects in the infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Nausea | | 2 | Vomiting | | 3 | Loss of appetite | | 4 | Constipation | | 5 | Headache | | 6 | Weakness | | 7 | Increased thirst | | 8 | Increased urination | | 9 | Kidney stones (in cases of high doses) | | 10 | High calcium levels (hypercalcemia) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypercalcemia | | 2 | Hypervitaminosis D | | 3 | Known hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol | | 4 | Severe kidney disease |
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| interactions | | 1 | Other calcium supplements | | 2 | Certain medications (e.g., thiazide diuretics, steroids, anticonvulsants) | | 3 | Phosphorus supplements (may require adjustment in dosage) |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor blood calcium levels and kidney function when taking high doses. | | 2 | Vitamin D supplements should not be used as a replacement for a balanced diet and adequate sunlight exposure. | | 3 | Patients with underlying kidney or liver conditions should be cautious and consult a doctor about usage. | | 4 | Always follow the prescribed dosage. Do not exceed recommended limits without consulting a physician |
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| additional informations | The recommended daily intake of vitamin D3 for a 25-year-old male weighing 70kg varies depending on sun exposure and dietary vitamin D intake. Serum vitamin D levels should be evaluated by a physician to determine the appropriate dosage. A balanced diet containing vitamin D-rich foods (e.g., fatty fish, fortified dairy products) and sufficient sun exposure (especially during daylight hours) is essential to maintain optimal vitamin D levels. Do not self-treat with vitamin D supplements. |
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